Welcome to Hyperion Records, an independent British classical label devoted to presenting high-quality recordings of music of all styles and from all periods from the twelfth century to the twenty-first.

Hyperion offers both CDs, and downloads in a number of formats. The site is also available in several languages.

Please use the dropdown buttons to set your preferred options, or use the checkbox to accept the defaults.

Don't show me this message again

O, all ye people, clap your hands, Z138

Introduction

This splendid anthem is another four-part setting dating from around 1680 of a psalm paraphrase by John Patrick. The opening is jubilant, and the voices alternate between the trumpet-like calls of ‘O, all ye people’ and busy running passagework where they ‘make a cheerful noise’. After brief homophony at ‘declare your inward joys’ the close imitation returns, with ‘his high perfections’ thrown rapidly between the four voices. The trumpet calls continue at ‘In a triumphant state our Lord is gone’, and the full ensemble and the two boys alternate fanfares and echoes as the instruments ‘proclaim our joys’. ‘Sing cheerful praises to our God’ is more melodic, and God rules harmoniously ‘o’er the heathen people’ before the tempo is broadened as God ‘shall judge the world at last’.

Recordings

'Every number brings new riches, and two have never been recorded before. Indeed, 'The Way of God' is a revelation' (BBC Music Magazine Top 1000 CDs G ...'This disc is full of the wonderful writing that we expect from Purcell … that is becoming better known and understood through Robert King's perf ...» More

'It is hard to speak too highly of this enterprise … much enjoyment to be had' (Gramophone)'the performances from The King’s Consort and its Choir, the Choir of New College and a starry line-up of soloists have such qualities of concentratio ...» More

O, all ye people, clap your hands, And make a cheerful noise; With acclamations to your God Declare your inward joys. His high perfections proclaim Him greatly to be feared; This king of all the world commands Your honour and regard. In a triumphant state our Lord Is gone above the skies; Trumpets proclaim our joys and all Applaud his victories. Sing cheerful praises to our God, Sing praises to our king; He is lord of all the earth, his praise With understanding sing. God o’er the heathen people reigns; And in that throne is plac’d, Where he in glory sits, and thence Shall judge the world at last.